Why I’m Loving MIDCENTURYLA

This just may be the most fun place to spend an afternoon in LA vintage land. Owner David Pierce is a handsome, super witty, self-deprecating former techie who will fire you up a cappuccino, offer you a chic Scandinavian seat and chat you up on design, media innovation, the quirks of his business and the joys of Los Angeles. Prepare yourself for both great stories and really beautiful things!

MIDCENTURYLA has CONTAINERS of truly inspiring stuff but I knew I found my promised land when I learned that David sells photography by Jock McDonald. By serendipitous coincidence, 16 years ago McDonald sent over a pivotal bottle of wine when I was out on my first (and very nervous) date with my now husband and Chairish co-founder Gregg. GOOD SIGN!

Stay tuned as David is soon to roll out a sparkling collection of restored vintage Mercedes 280SLs (My dream car! Seriously. Now do you get his taste level and wit?) and new shipments of fabulosity arrive monthly.

I had such a good time shopping here I knew this place had to be part of the first Los Angeles City Guide that Chairish was putting together. While I was there, I asked David some questions about his background and his thoughts on design. I discovered that he has a very interesting story. Enjoy!

What’s your motto?

Sell fabulous design in a way that is open, accessible and fun for everyone. I eschew anything arrogant. I got into this business because I love the mid-century aesthetic and Danish in particular. I wanted to open it up to everyone.

Cool facts about your shop?

The store is frequently shopped by celebrities and designers. Many items featured on the sets of Mad Men came from MIDCENTURYLA.

How did you get into this?

I left the San Francisco scene and moved to Northern Europe planning to open a hip hotel in Stockholm. Then Sept 11th happened, the travel industry crashed and somehow I ended up importing Scandinavian furniture! I often wonder, “How the hell did I end up doing this? How did I get all this stuff?”